While former President Donald Trump will not be a candidate in the 2026 midterm elections, his influence among Black voters continues to be a focal point for the Republican Party. T.W. Shannon, the former Oklahoma state House Speaker and current Republican nominee for lieutenant governor, believes that the party can sustain the momentum gained from Trump’s increased support among Black voters during the 2024 presidential election.
Shannon highlights that Trump secured 16% of the Black vote in 2024, nearly doubling his support compared to the previous election. He credits the Republican Party’s policies and the Democratic Party’s leftward shift for this change.
“Donald Trump has revitalized the Republican Party as the party of the working class,” Shannon stated. “Democrats now find themselves competing for the Black vote, a demographic they previously took for granted.” Shannon underscored the importance of job creation and lower crime rates during Trump’s tenure, noting these benefit Black voters and communities.
Shannon criticized Democratic candidates associated with the Democratic Socialists of America, noting their policies such as raising taxes and disbanding the police do not resonate well with Black communities.
“These are not things that are well received in the Black community,” he emphasized.
In contrast, a spokesperson from the Democratic National Committee (DNC) expressed disagreement with Shannon’s views. They argued that Black Americans will reject Trump’s policies and elect Democrats who focus on reducing costs for working families.
The spokesperson also highlighted the DNC’s commitment to mobilizing Black voters and protecting civil and voting rights amidst challenges from the Trump administration.
T.W. Shannon, who became Oklahoma’s youngest and first African American House speaker in 2013, is likely to win his campaign in the Republican-leaning state. He viewed his primetime speaking opportunity at the GOP midterm convention as a significant platform to promote Oklahoma and the nation.
The Trump Team’s Challenge to the Military Leadership 
Maryland First State to Restrict Electronic Pricing in Grocery Stores 
Activists Push for Nationwide Ban on Child Marriage in the U.S. 
Democratic Hopes and Historical Warnings in 2026 Senate Race 
Republicans Face Challenges Amidst Cost of Living Concerns 
A Different Kind of Fall for Congress This Year